Greek police nab Pentagon hacking carding suspect

Greek police have arrested an 18-year-old suspected of hacking into systems run by Interpol, the FBI, and the Pentagon.

The unnamed Athens-resident teenager - known only by his online handle nsplitter - allegedly began his hacking spree with an attack against the FBI when he was only 15. However, investigators reckon his main stock in trade was using malicious toolbars to plant spyware on victims' machines.

Credit card and banking details entered into these compromised machines was extracted and used to siphon off cash. These illicit funds were allegedly used, not to buy consumer electronics or flashy cars, but to invest in firms listed on the Greek stock exchange.

Authorities in the US, France and Greece began piecing together the hacks in February 2008. This led to a recent raid on the suspect's home - which he shares with his mother - during which funds and computer equipment were seized.

Police also claim to have recovered a makeshift explosive device, flares and shotgun cartridges.